Opposition leader Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail has urged Malaysians not to relent in their efforts to build a “new Malaysia”.

In her Chinese New Year message, the PKR president said the rooster symbolised both steadfastness and the coming of a new dawn.

She is however of the belief that 2017 would be a year full of challenges and therefore more needs to be done to overcome them.

“However, we shouldn’t forget about the abuse of power and misappropriation of the kleptocrats which have forced us to face these challenges,” she added.

The Permatang Pauh MP said as a result of kleptocracy, the currency has become weak, leading to a poor performing economy.

She added that the people have to shoulder the burden, with some having lost their jobs while others are forced to face the ever increasing cost of living.

“But whatever challenges that come, do not be disheartened. Have strength in facing any challenges.

“Our perseverance is needed in this long fight to improve the current situation as well as to build a new Malaysia that is just and prosperous,” she added.

Yesterday, PKR deputy president Azmin Ali said the rooster symbolised leadership and strong will.

“This Year of the Rooster reminds us of the importance of good leadership in setting the direction and future of our nation and its people,” he added.

Thanking the “tremendous contributions” of the Malaysian Chinese community, Azmin believes that change will occur.

“The rooster will rise to greet the desire for justice, democracy, freedom and reform that ride upon the light of dawn,” he added.